What is your teaching philosophy?

I believe that every student can improve! Each one has a unique way of finding the subject interesting. We can work together to get their very best results.

What might you do in a typical first session with a student?

We will talk about what the student finds interesting about the subject- if anything. I will allow the student to tell me how they feel they learn best and tailor our sessions towards that.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

I will look for ways that may increase the student's interest in the subject- so that they can be more engaged.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

I often tell students that it works better if they do a little of study each day, preferably at the same time each day, rather than cramming at the last minute.

If a student has difficulty learning a skill or concept, what would you do?

I would "think outside the box" and look for ways the student might approach the subject in a fresh way. Often it involves asking the student more questions.

What strategies have you found to be most successful when you start to work with a student?

I ask them about themselves and how they feel about the subject and the tests.

How would you help a student get excited/engaged with a subject that they are struggling in?

I would try to find "real life" examples of the subject that they can relate to personally.

What techniques would you use to be sure that a student understands the material?

I ask practice questions and test reading comprehension.

How do you build a student's confidence in a subject?

By engaging their interest, allowing them independent study and steady encouragement from me.

How do you evaluate a student's needs?

I give them practice questions and ask the student personal questions, and also check with parents what their goals might be.

How do you adapt your tutoring to the student's needs?

Depending on the needs, I might choose a more rigid testing method or a more creative brainstorm method.

What types of materials do you typically use during a tutoring session?

Practice tests, readers, online resources, and also reading materials that the student might encounter every day.

How do you help students who are struggling with reading comprehension?

By adjusting reading levels and using different strategies depending on the reader's level.